Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read | 19 August 2025 | 14:45 CAT

Nationwide anger spills onto the streets as Israelis demand the release of hostages and an end to the Gaza war. 📸 Image: ANI

Tens of thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets in a rare nationwide shutdown, demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza and calling for an end to the war. While anger is visible on the ground, analysts warn that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains politically secure, bolstered by his parliamentary majority and coalition partners.

Dr. Alon Liel, Former Director General of Israel’s Foreign Ministry and ex-ambassador to South Africa, told Radio Islam International that the protests reflect the deep fractures within Israeli society. “The demonstration was for two purposes, ending the war and getting all the hostages back,” he explained. “But unfortunately, these demonstrations are not really having a direct impact on him or his government.”

Despite mounting dissent, Netanyahu’s coalition partners remain firmly aligned with his promise to eliminate Hamas. “For part of his government, the extreme right, this goal of eliminating Hamas is the number one goal of the war,” Liel noted, warning that any concession could destabilize his fragile coalition.

However, Netanyahu’s most pressing challenge lies not within Israel but abroad. According to Liel, “his number one problem now is the growing isolation of Israel internationally. The growing isolation in every aspect, especially politically, but also culturally and in sport, is very worrying here.”

Recent reports suggesting that Hamas may accept a ceasefire proposal could intensify global pressure. Liel cautioned that unless a comprehensive deal is struck, exchanging all hostages for Palestinian prisoners and formally ending the war, Israel’s isolation will only deepen.

Looking ahead, international recognition of Palestinian statehood could trigger a seismic shift. “If the 12 countries, including Britain, France, Canada and Australia, recognize the state of Palestine in September at the UN General Assembly, the earth will shake here in Israel,” Liel said. “This is seen as a terrible punishment and it worries Netanyahu more than anything else.”

For now, Netanyahu’s grip on power remains intact. With elections still 15 months away and his coalition secure, the protests are unlikely to topple him. Yet, as Liel concluded, the real test will be whether Israel can withstand the rising tide of international condemnation and the potential recognition of Palestine as a UN member state.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat and Dr Alon Liel.